What optical principle is commonly utilized to create polarized light?

The generation of polarized light heavily relies on the principle of reflection off of flat surfaces or through filters. When light strikes a smooth surface, particularly at a certain angle termed Brewster's angle, it undergoes polarization. During this process, the reflected light waves align in such a way that they vibrate predominantly in one direction, resulting in polarized light.

Additionally, polarizing filters work by allowing only light waves that are aligned with their polarization direction to pass through, effectively filtering out other orientations and thus producing polarized light. This principle is widely applied in various technologies, such as sunglasses and photography, to reduce glare and enhance contrast. Hence, the selection of this answer exemplifies an understanding of key optical principles involved in the creation of polarized light.